In a word, the Lee-Itawamba Library System is mobilizing.
As a two-county public library system, we have served the communities across our region for almost seventy years. Over the course of that time we have earned a special place in the hearts of those who love and value what we do—appreciated for providing quality service, excellent programming, and as we embark on the next chapter—an innovative and forward-thinking spirit. In many ways, the current era feels like a new beginning in the life of our system. We are growing. We are modernizing. We are exploring ways to support our patrons and our communities as new trends, developments, and opportunities unfold. Most importantly, we are committed to a relentless people-focused attitude.
And only just in time.
Key performance indicators paint a vibrant picture of a library system facing enthusiastic public demand for its services. Our libraries welcome almost 10,000 visits per month. Signups for summer reading programs have increased 81% over the past two years, and library patrons saved more than $2.1 million dollars by checking out library materials instead of turning to a big box retailer—money that stays here in our community and in the pockets of library-loving families. In fact, the positive economic impact of the Lee-Itawamba Library System is striking—generating more than $6.65 million dollars in economic activity across the region every year, representing an almost 4-to-1 ROI. For every $1.00 that we spend, we return $3.81 to the communities that we serve.
Looking ahead, our team is aware of several priorities that require special attention. These include improving community outreach, developing a dynamic calendar of programs to meet patron needs, and pursuing additional funding for important upgrades. Growing the library’s team is also a key priority. Additional team members are needed to help meet growing public demand and to power crucial modernization efforts. Indeed, we recently hired a full-time Bookmobile Specialist, a position that will reinvigorate that service and help us reach library-loving patrons throughout Lee County.
This is an exciting moment. The future is bright. Together, we can take our library system—and our communities—into the future!
Read our full annual report below.